Going Around: The Unspoken Heroism of Prioritising Safety
Janam Parikh, MSc.
Seasoned Aviation Professional | MSc. Air Transport Management (Distinction) | Marketing & Operations Specialist | Hobby Pilot | Strategic Innovator in Developing Aviation Ecosystem
Pilots are trained to handle any situation that comes their way. But sometimes, the most courageous decision we can make is to say "no" to a potentially risky landing. It's a choice that requires a deep understanding of the factors at play, trust in our instincts, and a commitment to safety above all else.
Factors to Consider
1. Wind and Weather:
??- Crosswinds: gusts, shear, and turbulence
??- Thunderstorms: microbursts, wind shear, and hail
??- Ice and snow: contaminated runways and reduced braking performance
??- Visibility: low ceilings, fog, and reduced visual references
2. Aircraft Performance:
??- Unusual behaviour: stalls, buffeting, or oscillations
??- System malfunctions: engine failure, hydraulic issues, or electrical faults
??- Performance limitations: reduced power, speed, or altitude
3. Runway Conditions:
??- Contamination: water, snow, ice, or debris
??- Shortened runways: temporary or permanent reductions
??- Uneven surfaces: potholes, grooves, or uneven pavement
4. Visual Cues:
??- Unusual visuals: displaced thresholds, uneven lighting, or construction
??- Runway incursions: vehicles, pedestrians, or wildlife
??- Visual illusions: slope, terrain, or atmospheric conditions
5. Gut Feeling:
??- Experience and instinct: trust your training and subconscious
??- Situational awareness: consider the big picture and potential risks
6. Air Traffic Control (ATC) Instructions:
??- Last-minute changes: runway, approach, or altitude adjustments
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??- Unusual clearances: non-standard instructions or phraseology
7. Aircraft Configuration:
??- Flaps, gear, and spoilers: ensure correct configuration for landing
??- Autopilot and automation: understand mode transitions and limitations
8. Crew Resource Management (CRM):
??- Communication: clear and concise decision-making
??- Decision-making: collaborative and assertive leadership
The Decision to Go Around
It takes courage to abort a landing, especially when passengers are on board. But prioritizing safety is our top responsibility. Consider the following:
1. Passenger Safety: their lives are in our hands; let's keep them safe
2. Crew Safety: our own lives and well-being are at stake too
3. Aircraft Safety: protect the aircraft from damage or total loss
4. Reputation and Liability: the consequences of an accident can be far-reaching and devastating
5. Personal Consequences: the weight of responsibility for any adverse outcome
The Consequences of Not Going Around
Pushing through a risky approach can lead to:
1. Accidents: loss of control, runway excursions, or worse
2. Injuries: passengers and crew put at risk
3. Damage: aircraft damage or total loss
4. Regulatory Action: potential fines, penalties, or even license suspension
5. Personal Consequences: the weight of responsibility for any adverse outcome
As pilots, we must trust our training, experience, and instincts. If an approach doesn't feel right, we must go around. Safety is never a compromise. Let's prioritise it, every time. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Let's support each other in our commitment to safety.
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